combo box for data entry multiple fields

[charliebcc]

I have a main form describing calls for service for a rescue squad with an ID# to make the record unique. I want to create a subform with the members of the rescue squad who went to the call. To accomplish this I want to use a combo box to select a members name from the members table and store the SS#, Name, Address, and Badge# of the selected member into a MEMBERS HOURS TABLE using the subform which will also be used to display the information on the main form. Please be detailed.
Thanks very much,
Charlie

 

[Rich]

You only need to store the SS# if thats the PK. The other values can be retrieved at any time via queries etc.

 

[charliebcc]

I don't need to retreive info I want to insert it. I want the combo box to insert the information from a table into a number of different fields using one selection such as a name or ss#. So that by choosing a particular name or ss# from the combo box all the rest of the information is entered automatically into the coresponding fields. Can this be done? If so please give me details. Thanks much.
Charlie

 

[David R]

Charlie, if you store the SS# you can retrieve the rest of the information ANY time you want to. Relational database design doesn't duplicate data unless it has to.

Consider this possibility: You have a single female rescue squad member. 4 years down the line, she gets married, and changes her last name. If you use proper design, you can change her name once, in the Members table. If you don't, you'll have to go through all of the hundreds of calls she's been on and change them all individually.

Does that help you understand? Look up a website or Microsoft Support article or book on 'database normalization' if you need more information on the topic. It really is to your benefit to use it the vast majority of the time.

David R